Los Angeles, California – The podcast industry continues to evolve as Amazon’s Wondery secures a groundbreaking distribution and advertising deal with Dax Shepard’s popular podcast, “Armchair Expert.” The deal, estimated at $80 million, not only includes distribution rights and ad sales but also involves the creation of two new podcasts, a first look agreement for future podcast concepts, live streaming plans, and the production and sale of “Armchair Expert” merchandise. Additionally, the collaboration will see the launch of video episodes of the podcast, marking a significant expansion for the show.
Dax Shepard expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership with Wondery, praising the company for its commitment to quality, innovation, and creativity. He likened Wondery to the HBO of the podcasting world, highlighting their shared vision for delivering fresh and engaging content to global audiences. The move comes after “Armchair Expert” was exclusively available on Spotify since 2021, during a period when major streaming platforms were aggressively acquiring popular podcasts.
“Armchair Expert” co-hosted by Dax Shepard and Monica Padman, is known for its insightful interviews with a diverse range of guests, including celebrities, scientists, authors, and artists. The show has garnered a considerable following for its relatable and thought-provoking discussions on various social and cultural issues, making it a natural fit for Wondery’s podcast lineup.
Jen Sargent, CEO of Wondery, emphasized the synergies between “Armchair Expert” and Wondery’s mission to entertain, engage, and delight podcast listeners worldwide. The collaboration aims to leverage Amazon’s expansive platform to further expand the reach and audience of “Armchair Expert” across different mediums including audio, video, and merchandise.
The deal was brokered by WME on behalf of Armchair Expert and the Armchair Umbrella Network, with both Dax Shepard and Monica Padman represented by the agency. The partnership between Wondery and “Armchair Expert” reflects the continued growth and competitiveness in the podcast industry, as top shows seek lucrative deals to reach broader audiences and enhance their content offerings.